[OfficeArrow]

Communication is not always easy; some might even call it an art. Although it can be hard enough to relay a message, it's even more difficult to ensure that it's taken the right way. June is "Effective Communications Month," and we want to know: How are you an effective communicator? Share your story and you may win! Read on for more details.

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[brushley]

I am an effective communicator because I appreciate my audience. I am able to cut to the chase, speak directly, and translate complex ideas for ease of understanding without talking down to or over people. I also use a lot of "Thank you", "I appreciate your ...(time, effort, help)". I take the time to follow up and to FYI relevant parties of changes/updates in a given project.

This is a great topic. I look forward to reading more posts.

Bonnie-
Columbus, OH

[Kateena]

I work in a very multicultural organisation, so clear and effective communication is imperitive. Often, it only takes one or two words out of context to completely change the meaning of what you want to get across.

I find one of the best ways to ensure good communication, especially in meetings, is to surmise what has been said in simple words everyone can understand. This also gives people an opportunity to speak up and say 'Oh, but didn't he say...'. This makes sure that everyone is on the same page.

It's also a good idea to send out reminders to people during the days follwing the discussion. (Much more reliable than depending on our own memory!). Asking for an update helps to prompt people along, and gives them an opportunity to ask for help/clarifcation.

All in all, I don't think it's possible to "over communicate".
Tell them once, tell them again, tell them what you told them, and then write it all down. Clarification is so important in business dealings. Otherwise you can end up with quite a mess (I've seen it happen!)

[journalgirl]

It has taken a lot of time and effort to overcome the tendency I had to ramble aimlessly through voicemails and to 'circle the wagon' of my point in discussions.

It took direct, honest feedback from a trusted mentor to allow me to see the impact that my poor communication skills were having on others. Personally, I think that leaving him a message that extended past the beep and resulted in a second lengthy voicemail message recapping my error just pushed him over the edge.

From then on, I have made it my mission to be clear and concise in every form of communication. I now sketch out what I need to say on paper before leaving voicemails. Editing and simplifying emails has become pleasurable by learning to effectively use bullet points, specific subject line descriptions and placing deadlines in bold.

Recently I tried to leave my mentor a message reminiscent of my old ways. I am happy to report that I could not.

My name is Tracy, and I am a recovering ineffective communicator.

[jord0205]

Effective Communication requires very little time, direct and concise statements, and most of all; continued communication. Everyday I communicate in these ways and I achieve success, build relationships and enjoy everything I do with less stress!

In order to be an effective communicator, I follow up on conversations when needed-I make sure everyone is on the same page; usually this is copying those involved in all the circulating emails.

In person, I make eye contact, am confident in what I'm saying and if i need to, I summarize the conversation afterward either verbally or by email.

I think it's also important to take notes when needed. That way, references can be made, clarifications are simple and correcting a mis-communication can be done easily and quickly.

Communicating takes more than just words and ears. It takes organization, confidence, knowledge of the subject at hand and a personality that allows all parties involved to thrive and succeed in what needs to be done.

Effective Communication is about working together to achieve success in everything.

[lsoutar]

I am an effective communicator because I use the following best practices:
* Listen to and know my audience
* Think and plan before I communicate
* Always communicate openly and honestly
* Provide clear and concise information highlighting the most important points
* Use the form of communication suited to my audience and message: Face to face, telephone, e-mail, voice-mail, flyers,thank you notes, etc.
* Label Communication for audience: FYI, ACTION REQUIRED, APPROVAL REQUIRED, etc
* Seek feedback to insure the right message was received
* Follow up on any questions and share answers with everyone
* Have fun getting creative
The most important part of any communication is confirming that the intended message is recieved. I hope this helps others to become better communicators. Regards, Lori

[steelgirl7117]

[quote=OfficeArrow;9833]Communication is not always easy; some might even call it an art. Although it can be hard enough to relay a message, it's even more difficult to ensure that it's taken the right way. June is "Effective Communications Month," and we want to know: How are you an effective communicator? Share your story and you may win! Read on for more details.

[bhenzie]

[quote=OfficeArrow;9833]Communication is not always easy; some might even call it an art. Although it can be hard enough to relay a message, it's even more difficult to ensure that it's taken the right way. June is "Effective Communications Month," and we want to know: How are you an effective communicator? Share your story and you may win! Read on for more details.

[kumarga]

[quote=OfficeArrow;9833]Communication is not always easy; some might even call it an art. Although it can be hard enough to relay a message, it's even more difficult to ensure that it's taken the right way. June is "Effective Communications Month," and we want to know: How are you an effective communicator? Share your story and you may win! Read on for more details.

[Oswaldo]

I am an effective communicator because I do my best to listen without judging and try to put myself on the other persons side at the time to decide. That approach allows me to bring up win-win situations most of the time. I get rewarded by good outcomes, emotionally balance life and positive working relationships.